Even though the job market has improved from just a few years ago, competition is still fierce. One way to break through the clutter and get the attention of a potential employer is to work with a Sacramento executive recruiter. When you do, not only can you gain access to hidden opportunities that are a good fit for your background, but a recruiter can also help you polish your resume, cover letter and interview skills.

If you are working with a recruiter, however, there are a few things you should know first in order to get the most of the relationship. Here’s a look at 5 of them:

Tip #1: Be honest.

If a recruiter is filling a position you’re interested in, be honest with them and with yourself about whether you’re the right fit. If it requires 15 years of management experience and you have six, then the employer likely won’t be interested. In order for a recruiter to do their job – and match you with great opportunities – you need to be both honest with yourself and with them.

Tip #2: Be upfront.

Many job candidates hate being asked about salary requirements. And for good reason: They’re afraid of leaving money on the table. But when you’re not forthcoming about your salary requirements, you’re making it hard for a recruiter to connect you with the right opportunities. It’s akin to going house-hunting with a real estate agent without providing them with a budget.

Tip #3: Be respectful.

It’s important to keep the lines of communication open when working with a Sacramento executive recruiter. That’s said, you don’t need to email or call them each day to inquire about job opportunities. If you do reach out to your recruiter and they don’t call you back immediately, do give them a little leeway. They could be busy with a client or working with a candidate. That said, if you feel like you’re regularly trying to reach out and connect with your recruiter – and you’re just getting silence in response, perhaps that recruiter isn’t the right fit for your needs.

Tip #4: Be open.

After you interview with an employer that your recruiter connected you with, let them know right away how the interview went. Even if you know the organization or the job opportunity isn’t right for you, tell your recruiter that and explain why. Armed without that information, they’ll be able to connect you with better fit opportunities going forward.

Tip #5: Be generous.

If your recruiter is trying to find the right professional for a position you’re not interested in, but you have a friend or colleague who would be, refer them. Your recruiter may want to return the favor in the future.

If you’re interested in working with a recruiter to find your next job, give Pacific ExecSearch a call. As experienced Sacramento executive recruiters, our professionals can help you find the opportunity you’ve been searching for. Contact us today to learn more.